A car dealership which has been operating for 18 years could have to shut to make way for new flats, it emerged today.

Graham Hutchinson has been running Chalkwell Park Motors in Leigh Road, Leigh, since 1985 but now the lease on the site has run out - leaving him high and dry.

Mr Hutchinson said: "I wanted to buy the site but the amount they wanted was too much. I also tried to negotiate with them to renew the lease but I was unable to negotiate acceptable terms.

"The trouble is there is so much money to be made out of property in Leigh it is not worthwhile for freeholders to lease out a space when they can develop it.

"It is sad. I have been here for 18 years and have built up a good business.

"However, I don't think the residents will be very happy with more flats going up."

Plans for the scheme, which include eight flats and around six car parking spaces, have already been lodged with Southend Council.

The proposals consist of an L-shaped block, of a maximum of three storeys, with access to Leigh Road.

Published Thursday November 27, 2003

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